What does Wilder mean and where does it come from?
Wilder is increasingly used as a feminine name in contemporary naming trends. It originally comes from the English surname that signifies a wild or untamed nature. The use of 'Wilder' for girls reflects a broader cultural trend of choosing strong, nature-based names that imply independence and resil
Cultural significance
Wilder has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of referring to 'wild' or 'untamed', indicating a free-spirited nature.”.
Peak popularity
Reached #390 in 2024 — currently #431 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Wilder?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Wilder?
Wilder works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Wilder Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilder John
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilder Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Wilder Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Wilder Beau
One syllable · on the rise
Wilder Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Wilder right now?
Declining — down 41 spots — currently #431 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #431 | 743 | ▼ down 41 · -11% births |
| 2024 | #390 | 836 | ▲ up 32 · +11% births |
| 2023 | #422 | 755 | ▼ down 48 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #374 | 866 | ▼ down 8 · -3% births |
| 2021 | #366 | 890 | ▲ up 2060 · +1154% births |
| 2020 | #2426 | 71 | ▲ up 3436 · +223% births |
| 2015 | #5862 | 22 | ▲ up 11276 · +340% births |
| 2010 | #17138 | 5 | ▼ down 11843 |
| 1925 | #5295 | 5 | — |
The story of Wilder
Wilder entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 4,396 total births recorded, Wilder remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5295 in 1925 to #422 in 2023. Wilder is used for both genders: 7% female and 93% male.
Names that peaked alongside Wilder in 2024:
Wilder by decade
Wilder peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 52 | |
| 1920s | 88 | |
| 1930s | 26 | |
| 1940s | 15 | |
| 1950s | 16 | |
| 1960s | 6 | |
| 1970s | 5 | |
| 1980s | 51 | |
| 1990s | 155 | |
| 2000s | 378 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,852 | |
| 2020s | 2,423 | |
💎With 4,396 total births, Wilder is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Wilder?
What names sound and feel like Wilder?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Wilder also consider these
Common questions about the name Wilder
What does the name Wilder mean?
Wilder means "referring to 'wild' or 'untamed', indicating a free-spirited nature.”" — a name rooted in American tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Wilder?
Wilder is currently ranked #422 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Wilder have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Wilder?
Wilder originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Wilder?
Wilder is a two-syllable name pronounced WEYE-lder. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Wilder trending right now?
Wilder is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.